Do you have a tendency to criticize others? Have you ever frowned on a different approach some co-worker selected to meet a challenge, even though they were successful? Or, are you guilty of rolling your eyes at a stranger’s disheveled appearance? Criticism is the act of judging unfavorably or faultfinding. There is always more to a story and we are often clueless to all the whys behind a situation. A true friend will speak the …

June 1 Proverbs 15:31-33 No one likes criticism, but encountering some is inevitable, so we need to learn how to respond in a godly way. Although you might be tempted to become defensive or angry, remain calm and listen. The words may hurt, but great benefits come to those who carefully consider what is said. If we refuse to accept reproof, we’ll limit our potential for Christlike character development and spiritual growth. Some of life’s …

May 30/31 Luke 12:11-12 When conflict occurs, the natural reaction is to blame someone else and defend yourself. But believers must respond differently. Once, I was publicly chastised for a wrong I had not committed. Thankfully, the Lord enabled me to remain calm rather than react angrily. Praying first is always the best response in a crisis. When we do, God supernaturally provides that which we can’t muster up ourselves. Spiritual discernment. The Lord, who perfectly …